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Leaving the Nagarkot Ridge
The hike begins at the northern end of Nagarkot. Gentle descent through local farms leads to the national park boundary — have permits ready for the army checkpoint.
Farm tracksPark boundaryCheckpoint
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Shivapuri National ParkNagarkot → Chisapani
Nagarkot Chispani Trek
The ultimate valley rim wilderness hike: roughly 22 km through Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park — forests, remote villages, and dramatic Himalayan views from Chisapani.
~22 km · 6–8 hours walking
Wild forest · Chisapani panorama
6–8 Hours
~22 km
Mod.–Challenging
2,250 → 2,140 m
Point-to-point
Clear skies best
Overview
Valley Rim Wilderness Trek
The Nagarkot to Chisapani hike is the definitive choice if you want to leave the resort ridges behind for a full day in the wild. Stretching roughly 22 kilometers along the northern rim of the Kathmandu Valley, it is a true test of endurance — with pristine forest, hidden waterfalls, and some of the most dramatic peaks you can see this close to the capital.
Unlike shorter village loops, this route spends most of its time inside a protected national park: rugged paths, fewer crowds, and a sense of remoteness that is rare on a day hike from Nagarkot. Nagarkot itself and local trails in the area do not charge a general entry fee — here you pay Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park entry at the checkpoint because the route crosses the park.
Terrain is not highly technical, but distance and elevation change demand solid fitness and good boots — ideal preparation if you are training for longer treks in Langtang or beyond.
Wildlife: boar, deer, langurs possible
Langtang · Ganesh Himal · Manaslu views
Ridge & forest
Route
Trail Route & Stages
From Nagarkot's northern ridge to Chisapani — farms, forest, villages, and a high finish.
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Forest Ridge Walk
Inside Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park, the trail follows a high ridge through deep greenery. On clear days, snow-capped peaks stay visible to your right for hours as you move west.
Oak & pineRidge lineHimalaya views
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Jhule & Chauki Bhanjyang
The forest opens into small Tamang and mixed settlements — less visited than trails near central Nagarkot. Stop for dal bhat, tea, and a breather before the final push.
Remote hamletsTea stopsTerraces
Arrival at Chisapani
Undulating terrain — short steep climbs and gradual drops — leads to a rugged finish. Tea houses and lodges open onto Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and Manaslu; sunset from Chisapani is legendary.
~2,140 mLodgesPanorama finish
Gear & Trail Tips
National park rules, hydration, and pacing for a long forest day on the rim.
Permits & checkpoint
- Carry passport or a copy and cash for Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park entry at the army checkpoint
- Have fees ready before you reach the park boundary — queues can form at busy times
Water & food
- Long forest stretches have few shops — carry at least 2.5 liters and energy snacks
- Villages like Jhule and Chauki Bhanjyang are good for tea and a simple lunch
Timing & light
- Start by 7:30 AM — you do not want to be on forest trails after sunset
- Plan 6–8 hours of walking; add breaks for photos and meals
Footing & navigation
- Wear broken-in boots — sections are rocky, dusty, and tiring over 22 km
- Ridge walking is generally clear, but a guide or offline map helps at forks
National park & rim views
Valley rim wilderness
Why This Hike Stands Out
Most of the route sits inside Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park— oak, pine, and rhododendron forest where you might spot wild boar, barking deer, or langurs. It is one of the few long wild walks you can reach quickly from the Kathmandu Valley rim.
Chisapani means “cold water.” From this hilltop settlement, Langtang, Ganesh Himal, and Manaslu fill the northern skyline — and sunset here is often even more dramatic than from Nagarkot.
At roughly 22 km point-to-point, this is a true endurance day: rewarding, remote, and unmistakably Himalayan.
Essential Hiker's Checklist
Permits, water, timing, and footwear — the non-negotiables for a safe day on this trail.
National park fee
Unlike Nagarkot’s local trails, this route enters Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park — carry ID and cash for the checkpoint
Guide recommended
Long forest legs and side paths — local guides simplify routing and timing
Overnight option
Many hikers stay in Chisapani and continue to Sundarijal the next day
Full-day stamina
A serious conditioning trek if you are building toward longer Himalaya routes
Trail FAQ
Nagarkot to Chisapani — common questions
Distance, permits, difficulty, and whether to do it in one day or split overnight.
How long is the hike from Nagarkot to Chisapani?
The trek is approximately 22 to 25 kilometers long. It is a full-day commitment, usually taking 6 to 8 hours of walking time depending on your fitness level and pace.
Do I need a permit for the Nagarkot to Chisapani hike?
Nagarkot and its local trails do not charge a general area entry fee — this hike is different because it crosses Shivapuri Nagarjun National Park. You must pay the park entry fee at the checkpoint. Fees are approximately NPR 1,000 for foreigners, NPR 600 for SAARC nationals, and NPR 100 for Nepalese citizens.
Is this hike suitable for beginners?
This hike is graded as 'Moderate to Challenging' due to its length (22km+). While the terrain isn't overly technical, the duration requires good physical stamina. Beginners should be prepared for a long day of walking.
Can I do the Nagarkot to Chisapani hike in one day?
While it is possible for very fit hikers to do this in one day (starting at sunrise), many people prefer to stay overnight in Chisapani and continue to Sundarijal the next day to make it a more relaxed experience.